If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering adoption, you may not know where to start in the process and what is involved. Although New Life Clinic is not a licensed child-placing agency, we provide additional information and refer you to reputable adoption agencies in our area. 

Ohio Adoption Today

The good news is that modern adoption is designed to protect your rights as the birth parent. The signing of the Adoption Modernization Act in 2024 provides the following for expectant mothers or birth mothers and their children:

  • Increases financial support for expecting mothers who plan to place their child for adoption, supporting the well-being of the mother and child.
  • Expedites kinship care benefits.
  • Streamlines the adoption process.
  • Includes additional safeguards and protections to ensure the safety of adopted children.

You Have Rights

The expectant mother or birth mother (and the birth father, if available) can choose the adoptive couple who will raise their child. In addition, you have the right to decide the level of involvement you want with the adoptive family and your child. 

The main types of adoption plans include: 

  • Open Adoption: You choose the family you want to adopt your child, and continue to have contact with them throughout your child’s life as they grow.  
  • Semi-open Adoption (a “mediated” adoption): You choose the family, but your adoption coordinator manages communication between you and the adoptive family. This plan provides for more privacy between parties.
  • Closed Adoption: You won’t have contact with the adoptive family or your child. The court seals all adoption records, and you remain completely anonymous.

You never pay for adoption services with a reputable, licensed adoption coordinator. The coordinator ensures your medical and legal expenses are covered. Ohio state law allows the coordinator to arrange payment for pregnancy-related expenses, including rent, utilities, food, personal care items, etc.

Getting Help With the Adoption Process

Learning about the adoption process and details about your pregnancy are the first two essential steps in deciding if adoption is right for you.

New Life Clinic is here to help. Our expert and caring staff can also provide details about adoption and how the process works, as well as connect you with local adoption agencies. 

Contact us today to schedule your free appointment. We want to help in any way possible.